Staying fit during the holidays often takes a back seat to simply getting through the holidays. But staying fit will help you get through. Don’t throw the baby out with the bath water! You’ve heard the expression “eat and run”? During the holidays, we often forget to run, unless we are running out of batteries, running out of time, running out of gift ideas. It’s time to bring back the other kind of running.

It’s common knowledge that the holidays can cause stress. It’s also well known that fitness relieves stress. Fitness and the holidays were meant for each other! What the season has joined together, let no man cast asunder. This week we will look at 10 tips for staying fit during the holidays.

Remember that the holidays are a season that ends. Not every single day during the holiday season is celebrated. Find some space between the festivities to celebrate yourself. Take care of yourself and you will be better able to care for those you love. (Put the Elf back into Self-care!)

Stay Hydrated! This is our favorite carroll. Your brain can easily confuse thirst with hunger. When your body is actually dehydrated, your brain might get the hunger message and start to act. Drink water first! A large glass of water before a meal—two before a big meal— can reduce the amount of food you consume. Drink six to eight glasses of water each day. Start with a glass of water as soon as you get out of bed.

Have a plan for your Self-care. Before you go to bed each night make a plan and schedule some exercise and meditation into your day – even if that movement is parking as far away from the mall as possible. Walk fast; walk often.

Get your workout in as early in the day as possible. The best-laid plans of mice and fitness buffs often go awry, especially when stuck in holiday traffic.

Dump your All-Or-Nothing mentality. Take exercise when you can. Every little bit helps. Even rough-housing with the nieces and nephews or building a snow man counts as exercise.

Eat smaller more frequent meals. Instead of two huge meals, eat four or five small ones. This will help keep your energy and blood sugar steady as it balances your appetite. You’ll be less likely to binge on sugary, fatty, salty treats.